UPFRONT

CHICAGO—Mike Bruno, 94, whose research, knowledge and innovations proved to be a catalyst for the viability of lithographic printing, passed away in January. Mr. Bruno was involved with the Lithographic Technical Foundation (later the GATF) and joined International Paper in a senior capacity, where he edited the “Pocket Pal” printing educational resource. He also published a newsletter, “What New(s) in Graphic Communications,” for 25 years. His autobiography, “Mike Bruno’s History of Printing in the 20th Century,” will be published in 2006.

Quad Bolstering Hartford Plant

HARTFORD, WI—Quad/Graphics is constructing a 161,416-square-foot addition to its plant here, a move that will provide 1.5 million square feet total. Two new MAN Roland 2×8 web presses are being installed and the company is adding 100 new positions, bringing the employee total here to 1,200.

Goss Consolidates Web Business

BOLINGBROOK, IL—Goss International will consolidate certain administrative and operational business activities here into its facilities in Dover and Durham, NH. As part of the move, approximately 100 positions will be eliminated throughout the United States over the next few months. The consolidation is part of the continuing integration of the web offset business acquired from Heidelberg. Goss will maintain sales, engineering, technical support and administrative functions in Bolingbrook.

Lehigh Direct Upgrades Software

BROADVIEW, IL—Lehigh Direct has upgraded its business management software to EFI Hagen OA version 8.02. Lisle, IL-based Goddard Professional Software and the Hagen OA support team assisted in the upgrade, which also featured the acquisition of new servers. After the servers were networked, development of a trial upgrade with customized programs and reports was accomplished. After the trial, Lehigh went live with the new system over a weekend. The upgrade has enabled Lehigh Direct to enjoy improved navigation and increased production.

Oak Lane Acquires Chapel 2000

PHILADELPHIA—Oak Lane Printing, based here, has completed the acquisition of Moorestown, NJ, competitor Chapel 2000 & Beyond Printing. The move will help bolster even further growth for Oak Lane, which more than doubled its revenues from $7 million in 2003 to $15 million in 2004.